Deputy Minister of Tourism Kostas Koumis departed on 26 September for Riyadh to participate in the World Tourism Organisation's official celebrations for World Tourism Day 2023, which is celebrated every year on 27 September and which this year is dedicated to redefining the role of investments in the successful implementation of Agenda 2030 ("Tourism & Green Investments").

In a statement, the Deputy Ministry of Tourism said that the WTO's axes for a new investment strategy in tourism, aimed at creating opportunities, which include investing in human capital, accelerating the green transition and the prosperity that comes from harnessing innovation, technology and entrepreneurship ("Investing in People, Planet and Prosperity") are "strategic priorities for the Deputy Ministry, as its actions are aimed at sustainable tourism development, upgrading human resources skills, digital transition and encouraging non-discriminatory entrepreneurship."

"We celebrate World Tourism Day 2023, highlighting the need to respond to modern trends and challenges, a necessary condition for establishing Cyprus as a quality, sustainable and year-round destination on the one hand, and for the sector to further contribute to the social, economic and environmental well-being of the country on the other," it is added.

The Deputy Ministry of Tourism says it celebrated World Tourism Day this year at a special event in the presence of its tourism partners and fellow travellers, which "sent out a strong message, highlighting the urgent need to cultivate tourism awareness, a culture of sustainable development and green investments that will preserve the natural and cultural heritage diversity of the planet."

As part of the event, according to the Deputy Ministry, the Mayor of Lefkara, Sofoklis Sofokleous, was presented with the "UNWTO - Best Tourism Villages 2021" award, following the decision of the World Tourism Organisation to award the town and subsequently the historical review of the hotel industry in Cyprus was presented.

The new label of the Ministry of Tourism was also presented, which will reward hotels that highlight the historical heritage of Cyprus through their connection with events and elements of the past.

According to the press release, addressing the event, the Deputy Minister of Tourism stressed that making decisions and planning actions to support the green transition is not and should not be a catchy slogan, but an immediate necessity and an urgent responsibility.

The Deputy Ministry of Tourism also said that the provision of employment opportunities, (re)training and skills upgrading is being promoted through a targeted plan of seminars in all districts, an advertising campaign related to the tourism professions, rewarding best practices and programmes in schools to raise awareness about tourism and hospitality.

According to the Deputy Ministry, sustainability now governs every aspect of tourism policy and is an essential criterion in sponsorship schemes, quality labels and promotional activities in Cyprus, thus encouraging professionals in the sector to invest in the sustainability of the product on offer.

The Deputy Ministry of Tourism says that the epitome of alignment with this year's WTO theme is the innovative project "Heartland of Legends", which "is the circular route that covers the heartland of Cyprus and gives visitors the opportunity to get close to nature, learn about local traditions and participate in experiential activities".